Audio Obscura announces debut festival at Rotterdam UNESCO World Heritage Site

Audio Obscura has announced their inaugural music festival at Rotterdam’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, Van Nelle Fabriek. The event promoter is set to welcome fans on August 24, 2024 for their first ever festival. The passion-project, which promises a unique blend of internationally acclaimed artists and locally homegrown talent, will be the largest spectacle in Audio Obscura’s storied 10-year adventure.

While the lineup is yet to be revealed, electronic music enthusiasts from the Netherlands and beyond can anticipate a carefully curated selection in line with the legacy of the brand’s marquee bookings. Audio Obscura’s commitment to pushing boundaries and crafting unforgettable experiences by combining unique talent with obscure venues and incredible productions, ensures that the new festival will stand as a testament to their ongoing legacy. 

Van Nelle Fabriek, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, acts as the perfect canvas for Audio Obscura’s creative endeavours. The location boasts a rich heritage and striking visual features. Most notably, the distinctive transport bridges that slice the grounds virtually sideways, which will create an immersive setting for one of the festival key outdoor musical meeting points.

Earlier this year, Audio Obscura introduced themselves to Rotterdam with a groundbreaking indoor event at the Van Nelle Fabriek featuring the globally renowned Black Coffee, which sold out within weeks at the time. Now, with the upcoming festival, Audio Obscura is set to uphold the high standard set by their previous events, as they work towards the next milestone in their journey.

In the last 10 years, Audio Obscura has established itself as one of Europe’s most lauded electronic music promoters, taking over hallowed venues like Euromast, Rijksmuseum, G-Star’s RAW Factory, Zalmhaven Toren, The Loft, Gashouder, UNESCO’s Kinderdijk, and Muziekgebouw. These spaces, which are usually off-limits to clubbers, have played host to some of the greatest legends and biggest newcomers of the last decade, including Adriatique, Bonobo, Peggy Gou, Underworld, Charlotte de Witte, Joris Voorn, Solomun, The Martinez Brothers, and many more. Audio Obscura Festival promises to be no different, combining some of the biggest names in the scene with new and upcoming local talent and the unique Van Nelle site. 

Reflecting on the journey, Audio Obscura states,

In the past 10 years we have been searching both nationally and internationally for a festival site that aligns with our standards. Van Nelle Fabriek stands as a notable example of Dutch architectural design, celebrating Rotterdam’s cultural heritage with a unique blend of industrial aesthetics and creative spirit of its people. To be able to organise our first Audio Obscura festival in Rotterdam at Van Nelle Fabriek, with its endless possibilities, makes our hearts beat faster.”

Visit Audio Obscura’s website for more information and keep your ears peeled in the New Year for further details on Audio Obscura Festival.

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